Putin shakes up Defense Ministry

The move comes more than two years after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Published: May 12, 2024 3:46pm

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday made a change to his Defense Ministry when he removed his longtime ally Sergei Shoigu as defense minister.

Shoigu, who has held the position since 2012, was appointed to serve as secretary of Russia's Security Council, after Nikolai Patrushev was relieved from the position.

The reasoning behind the personnel change is unclear, but it comes more than two years after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Civilian Andrei Belousov will take over Shoigu's position, per Reuters

Follow Madeleine Hubbard on X or Instagram.

The Facts Inside Our Reporter's Notebook

Unlock unlimited access

  • No Ads Within Stories
  • No Autoplay Videos
  • VIP access to exclusive Just the News newsmaker events hosted by John Solomon and his team.
  • Support the investigative reporting and honest news presentation you've come to enjoy from Just the News.
  • Just the News Spotlight

    Support Just the News